The Problem:
Due to tree roots lifting the concrete and tiling along the edges, a footpath had become a significant trip hazard for pedestrians. The tree was seeking condensation moisture from under the concrete pathway and causing so much damage that the footpath had to be replaced twice in four years. In order to avoid removal of the tree, which was not part of the city plan, a much longer term solution was required.
The Solution:
Heritage Tree Care came up with a viable footpath replacement proposal that was both structurally sound and flexible enough to cope with potential future elevated roots. The idea was to trick the tree into thinking there was no longer a footpath there by removing the moisture seeking surface roots growing upwards under the concrete.
The project was managed by AQF Level 5 Arborist Daniel Oaten who undertook the surface root removal and subsequent wound treatment protocol. The area was decompacted using the VOGT Geo Injector and then minerals and trace elements were applied below the surface of the soil. Vertical coring was applied and backfilled with a porous structural media to ensure overland water flow is will able to seep deep into the trees’ rhizosphere. The tree is now able to obtain good nutrients from much lower underground than it had previously, eliminating the need for the roots to grow upwards.
Long Term Solution:
Daniel Oaten, Heritage Tree Care’s Senior Arborist and Research and Development Manager has been researching this issue for over 10 years. His research has shown that making the footpath dynamic (flexible) with a high rate of porosity will ensure that any over surface water would go through the footpath and into the ground below. This particular dynamic footpath was designed to allow approximately 110 litres per minute per square metre to flow through its surface.
For more information about this exciting project please give the team a call on 07 3715 5444 or email daniel.oaten@heritagetreecare.com.au
Tree Roots Lifting Driveways and Footpaths